KOTA SAMARAHAN: The Institute of Teacher Education Tun Abdul Razak Campus (IPGKTAR) has taken proactive steps to prepare future preschool educators for upcoming curriculum reforms through a Preschool Curriculum 2026 Orientation Workshop.
Held from Apr 29 to 30, the workshop gathered 98 students from the August 2025-July 2030 intake of the Preparatory Programme for Bachelor of Teaching (PPISMP) and the August 2023-July 2028 intake of the Bachelor of Teaching Programme (PISMP).
The programme aimed to introduce the Preschool Curriculum 2026, which emphasises 21st-century skills integration, appropriate use of digital technology, strengthening of values and character, and inclusivity to address diverse learning needs among children.
IPGKTAR director Yahya Sedik said the implementation of the new curriculum marks a significant step forward in strengthening the country’s early childhood education system.
“The Preschool Curriculum 2026 is not merely a revision of documents, but a comprehensive transformation in teaching and learning approaches.
“Future educators must be equipped with an open mindset, strong pedagogical skills and the ability to adapt to change to produce competitive future generations,” he said.
He added that the initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4), particularly Target 4.2, which emphasises access to quality early childhood education and supports national aspirations to ensure universal participation from preschool to upper secondary levels.
Meanwhile, Head of Early Childhood Education Department (JPAKK) Emi Dom stressed the importance of mastering curriculum content and translating it into meaningful teaching practices.
“Child-centred approaches and experiential learning should be prioritised in implementing the new curriculum,” she said.
The workshop also provided participants with early exposure to current developments and expectations in early childhood education in Malaysia, enabling them to better understand the rationale, structure and objectives of the curriculum.
Throughout the sessions, participants were introduced to six core learning domains: creativity and aesthetics, socio-emotional development, language and literacy, cognitive development, physical development and wellbeing, as well as spirituality, values and citizenship.
The workshop featured facilitators comprising state-level master trainers and lecturers, reflecting IPGKTAR’s commitment to ensuring its trainee teachers remain competent, adaptable and ready to meet evolving educational demands.
